🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram Truck

Generation:

Second Generation (BR/BE)

Applicable Years:

1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Dodge Ram Truck owners, DIY mechanics, repair shops, parts suppliers.

Value Proposition:

Saves time and money by providing accurate OEM part numbers and visual references, reducing incorrect parts orders.

Digital Access:

Instant download, compatible with all major operating systems and devices.

📋 Manual Details

Vehicle Series Covered:

2500 2WD, 3500 2WD, 2500 4WD, 3500 4WD

Page Count Estimate:

Extensive (specific number not provided, typical for comprehensive parts catalogs)

Manual Type:

Illustrated Parts Catalog (IPC)

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Components:

Engine Mounting, Cylinder Block, Engine Oiling, Timing Gear and Cover, Air Cleaner, Exhaust System, Fuel System Components (e.g., Fuel Filler Tube)

Chassis And Drivetrain:

Parking Brake Cable, Clutch Pedal (for manual transmissions), Running Board, Wheel Liner, Chassis components

Body And Interior:

Lamps Front, Instrument Panel, Overhead Console, Floor Pan, Tailgate, Player Kit (likely referring to audio system components)

Electrical And HVAC:

Wiring Kit-Trailer Tow, Plumbing Air Conditioning, Air Injection Plumbing

Part Identification:

Lookup of correct part numbers, identification of specific components via illustrations

Assembly Overview:

Exploded views for understanding component relationships and assembly

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive OEM-level parts cataloging, ideal for parts ordering and identification.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Print Quality:

Printable pages, high detail for illustrations and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download - PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download - PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

While not explicitly detailed in the catalog description, this generation of Dodge Ram trucks typically featured the 5.9L Magnum V8 (both 16-valve and later 24-valve versions), the 5.2L Magnum V8, and the 8.0L V10 Magnum engines. Diesel engines, such as the Cummins 5.9L Turbo Diesel, were also common, especially in 2500/3500 models. This catalog would detail parts for all applicable engine variants.

Power Output Range:

Varies by engine, but typically ranged from approx. 230 hp to over 300 hp for gasoline engines, and 215 hp to 230 hp for the Cummins Diesel, with significantly higher torque figures.

Fuel Delivery:

Fuel Injection (MPI - Multi-Point Injection for most gasoline, Rotary injection pump for Cummins diesel)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Types:

Automatic (e.g., 46RE, 47RE, 48RE) and Manual (e.g., NV4500 5-speed, G360 5-speed) transmissions were available depending on engine and drivetrain configuration.

Optional Transmissions:

Specific availability depended on model year and configuration.

Transfer Case Options:

For 4WD models, manual and automatic transfer cases were offered.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Regular Cab, Club Cab (extended cab), and Quad Cab (crew cab - introduced later in the generation for some models).

Wheelbase Options:

Varied depending on cab configuration and truck class (e.g., standard bed, long bed).

Gvwr Range:

Significantly varied based on 2500 vs. 3500 designation and configuration, ranging from approx. 8,800 lbs to over 10,000 lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings 1998-2002:

NHTSA crash test ratings were not as comprehensive or standardized as they are today. Frontal impact ratings were generally fair to good for the era, but side impact and rollover ratings were less emphasized.

Braking System:

Front disc brakes with rear drum brakes were standard. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was typically standard on rear wheels, and optional or standard on all four wheels depending on year and trim.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger airbags were standard equipment during this period.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Options:

Factory radio options typically included AM/FM cassette, AM/FM CD players, and premium sound systems. 'Player Kit' in the catalog likely refers to components of these systems.

Cruise Control:

Cruise control was a common option on most trims.

Trailer Towing Features:

Wiring harness for trailer towing was a common factory option or dealer-installed accessory, detailed in this catalog.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically recommended every 3,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type (conventional vs. synthetic) and driving conditions. Refer to the owner's manual for specific recommendations for each engine.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 for most gasoline engines, SAE 15W-40 for Cummins Diesel. Refer to owner's manual for exact specifications and API service classifications.

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 for automatic transmissions (often recommended as a replacement for older ATF+2/+3 specifications), and specific gear oil for manual transmissions. Consult manual for exact type and capacity.

Common Wear Items:

Water pump leaks, rear main seal leaks, brake component wear, exhaust system corrosion, power steering pump issues, and HVAC blower motor failure are not uncommon for vehicles of this age.

Diesel Specific Concerns:

For Cummins diesel models: injection pump issues, injector problems, and turbocharger wear. The 53 block casting issue (prone to cracking) is a specific concern for some gas engines of this era.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, with the Ram line evolving from the earlier D-series trucks.

Second Generation Launch:

The second generation of the Dodge Ram (BR/BE) debuted in 1994 with a distinctive, aggressive styling that set it apart from competitors. This generation continued through 2002, with mid-cycle refreshes and updates.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in North America, with major assembly plants including Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Michigan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Acclaim:

The second generation Ram Truck was generally well-received for its bold styling and powerful engine options, particularly the Cummins diesel. It competed directly with the Ford F-Series and Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra.